Local Christian leaders are making sure that everyone can take part in Ash Wednesday, even in these busy times.

Not everyone has time to get to church on Ash Wednesday, so some are offering ashes on the go.

The Episcopal Diocese of Central New York handed out ashes and said a prayer for commuters on South Franklin Street Wednesday.

Many Christians, especially Catholics, observe the day.

Church leaders said they are willing to go out into the streets to remind people that God is everywhere.

"This is our way of being a tangible reminder of that to people and aware that people's lives are busy, some people have a little baggage with the Church," said Reverend Carrie Schofield-Broadbant. "And if we can help people drawer closer to God that's really our goal." 

Ash Wednesday marks the first day of Lent, a period of fasting leading up to Easter.